© Madison Provided by WMTV 2022 Research links healthy aging, longevity and better quality of life to balancing exercise, slowing the aging process and reducing the risk of falls.Madison, Wisconsin. (WMTV) - A 2022 study links healthy aging, longevity and better quality of life to balancing physical activity, improving the aging process and combating the risk of falls.
"A little goes a long way," says Julie Line, a physical therapist at SSM Health. "I think it's really important that you encourage us to practice balance because everything we do is about maintaining our balance while standing and moving."
Research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine links continuous work on balance and stability to a longer life. The study found that only 50 percent of participants aged 70 to 75 were able to complete a 10-second balance test, the researchers said. The study linked a nearly four-fold higher death rate in those who failed a balance test of standing on one leg for 10 seconds.
Line says a few simple daily exercises can go a long way in improving stability and preventing falls, especially for seniors. The CDC reports that nearly three million older adults visit the emergency room each year after falling, and more than 32,000 deaths occur each year.
"It was very interesting to think how an exercise like this could help my balance," said Joyce Siffering. "I guess it's good because Julie said we should go, she said that's what you do in the kitchen."
The Seefering meets the line to surpass the PT in durability and stability. She says she's been battling Parkinson's disease for more than a decade, and the solid foundation the movement provides is crucial to her confidence to get out of the house.
"And there are many different types of exercises you can use to maintain your balance," Siffering said.
As she does things like cooking at home, simple actions pay off big. Y Line adds that balance exercises can make a difference as you age for anyone.
Helpful balance and stability exercises can be found on many medical websites, including WebMD.
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